Expanded family of ultra-portable handheld microwave spectrum analysers

SAF Tehnika has increased its Spectrum Compact family of ultra-portable handheld microwave spectrum analysers with the launch of a model that supports 6GHz–20GHz. Producing best-in-class price/performance, the new family produces high durability at a cost-effective price point, making it an excellent tool for field engineers and technicians accountable for link planning, installation, site acceptance, maintenance, and troubleshooting of wireless networks.

The analyser has a high sensitivity of -110dBm at 30kHz resolution bandwidth, long battery life of up to four hours, and instant-on functionality for quick start-up and operation. All this high-performance is provided in a rugged, ultra-compact form factor that measures just 135mm x 83mm x 34mm/ 5.31" x 3.27" x 1.34" and weighs 0.57kg/20.11oz. It is excellent for mobile carriers, telecommunications professionals, ISPs, and contractors responsible for regulatory and compliance, drone applications, and satellite operation.

Each aspect of the family has been created to meet the challenges of field applications. Like all family models, the 6GHz-20GHz handheld spectrum analyser offers a resistive touchscreen for operation with gloves and high contrast with full display modes for easy readability in bright light environments. Durable thumbscrews for the waveguide adapter connections assist the Spectrum Compact to withstand harsh environments. Its traces can be saved in the integrated 8GB of memory for offline analysis, investigation, and reporting using the Spectrum Manager PC software.

The instrument increases the frequency range for the family. Included in the series are what is claimed to be the world’s only portable E-band (70-87GHz) and V-band (56-71GHz) handheld spectrum analysers.

These devices are ideal for mobile operators, carriers, and tower installation crews deploying 5G networks, WISPs, public safety departments, local government institutions, and critical network infrastructure owners. Field engineers and technicians can utilise the ultra-portable handheld microwave spectrum analysers to conduct site surveys, radio parameter verification, interference detection, line-of-sight verification, antenna alignment, signal strength mapping, and interference hunting.